Esk Valley Winery, situated in the renowned Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand, has garnered a reputation for producing premium wines that authentically express their unique terroir. Established in 1933, the winery lies within the picturesque Esk Valley, a stone’s throw away from the Pacific Ocean. This location affords the vines a temperate maritime climate, ensuring consistent and high-quality grape growth.
From its inception, Esk Valley has prioritised traditional winemaking methods. The winery notably employs hand-picking, small batch fermentation, and the use of open-top concrete fermenters, a method reminiscent of bygone eras. This hands-on approach ensures each bottle of wine captures the essence of its varietal and origin.
The winery is known for producing a diverse range of wines, with a particular emphasis on Bordeaux-style red blends and Chardonnay. However, the wines that truly set Esk Valley apart are their unique expressions of Verdelho and Chenin Blanc, varietals not widely seen in the New Zealand wine scene.
Integral to Esk Valley's success is its commitment to sustainability. The winery is dedicated to minimising its environmental footprint through sustainable vineyard and winemaking practices. This includes responsible water use, reducing chemical inputs, and promoting biodiversity.
Esk Valley Winery, with its rich heritage and unyielding dedication to authenticity, continues to be a hallmark of New Zealand’s wine legacy. Their wines, resonating with character and depth, are a testament to the unique attributes of the Hawke's Bay region and the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.